[Calorie deficiency in preschool children of the rural area of Costa Rica]. / Le deficiencia calórica en preescolares del área rural de Costa Rica

Diets of preschool children from two studies carried out in rural areas of Costa Rica were analyzed to determine the relationship between caloric and protein deficiencies. On the average, a clear caloric deficiency was observed in the diets of all age groups considered, but their protein content was adequate. The individual analysis of the diets indicate that when caloric intake is adequate, the amount of protein is enough to satisfy the needs of these children. It is concluded that the dietary problem of preschool children in Costa Rica depends upon the quantity and not the quality of the diet. Implications of the effect of nutrition intervention programs based on erroneous assumptions are discussed.